Be on a tear
idiomatic expression
To perform very well or to be very successful in a short period of time.
Ever since their new album hit the shelves, that band has been on a tear.
Often appears as...
- be on a tear lately
- be on a tear recently
Usage tips
Colloquial
idiomatic expression
To behave in a very violent, aggressive or uncontrolled way.
After losing his job, he went on a tear and started yelling at everyone.
Often appears as...
- go on a tear
- on a tear of destruction
Usage tips
Disapproving
Colloquial
idiomatic expression
To perform very well or to be very successful in a short period of time.
Ever since their new album hit the shelves, that band has been on a tear.
Often appears as...
- be on a tear lately
- be on a tear recently
Usage tips
Colloquial
idiomatic expression
To behave in a very violent, aggressive or uncontrolled way.
After losing his job, he went on a tear and started yelling at everyone.
Often appears as...
- go on a tear
- on a tear of destruction
Usage tips
Disapproving
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Streak
Use it when someone or something is doing exceptionally well in a short time.
She's been on a tear with her sales this month, breaking all the records.
Pro Tip 2/3Recent Success
It implies a recent period of success, not a long-term track record.
The startup has been on a tear since its groundbreaking app release.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
The phrase isn't about tearing something; it's a metaphor for rapid success.
The stock market's been on a tear, and my investments have doubled.
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Streak
Use it when someone or something is doing exceptionally well in a short time.
She's been on a tear with her sales this month, breaking all the records.
Pro Tip 2/3Recent Success
It implies a recent period of success, not a long-term track record.
The startup has been on a tear since its groundbreaking app release.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
The phrase isn't about tearing something; it's a metaphor for rapid success.
The stock market's been on a tear, and my investments have doubled.
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Streak
Use it when someone or something is doing exceptionally well in a short time.
She's been on a tear with her sales this month, breaking all the records.
Pro Tip 2/3Recent Success
It implies a recent period of success, not a long-term track record.
The startup has been on a tear since its groundbreaking app release.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
The phrase isn't about tearing something; it's a metaphor for rapid success.
The stock market's been on a tear, and my investments have doubled.
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